Relichtie
Semi- Finals
April 12 1947 Aberdeen 3-0 Arbroath Scottish Cup
played at Dens Park, Dundee
This was Arbroath's only appearance in the semis of our national cup competition so far. Ticket prices on the day were -Centre Stand 10/6d, Wing Stand 7/6d, 5/-, and 3/6d. Enclosure 2/6d. ( for those of you who are to young to remember pounds, shillings and pence, ask your mums and dads ).
In the opening period there was only one glimpse of what Arbroath could do. It came from McGinlay in one of his rare incursions into Aberdeen territory. He passed to Hill, who moved the ball to Smith at outside right, and the ball eventually arrived at the feet of McMullan, who sent a drive narrowly past the upright from 20 yards.
The Dons desperately conceded several corners in the first thirty minutes, but Arbroath, in hooped shirts, couldn't grab the advantage.
At the other end Bonnar was denying the Aberdeen forwards with some fine saves, but he couldn't save the lichties in 43 mins. when from a McKenna free kick, the ball was headed to Baird, to Hamilton, and then to Williams near the penalty spot , his clever swerve deceived three defenders and his low shot put Aberdeen one up.
The second half started with some incessant Aberdeen pressure in an attempt to finish the tie, but it was Arbroath who came closest, when a lob from Smith beat Johnstone but was headed off the line by McKenna.
The tie was finally settled when, from a corner the ball was headed towards the Arbroath goal, and Evans allowed the ball to pass him for Bonnar to pick up, but Williams dashed in between them to score easily. Some fine saves later in the match by Bonnar kept the Dons at bay.
Commented the Arbroath Guide.
" The Red Lichties showed courage and ability, yet little physical power and versatility or guile to cut in on an opening when they shook the Pittodrie resistance. In their chief aim being a spoiling one, the Maroons were successful. Bonnar showed brilliant qualities, and he stopped a runaway victory by his daring and accuracy. McGinlay, Hill, and Carrie also performed well, otherwise the Arbroath team courageously hustled and bustled without settling to any studied play for more than brief moments."
Arbroath - Bonnar, English, Evans, Fraser, Hynd, McGinlay, Timmins, McMullen, Carrie, Hill, Smith.
Aberdeen - Johnstone, Cooper, McKenna, McLaughlin, Dunlop, Taylor, Harris, Hamilton, Williams, Baird, McColl.
Referee McDale, Glasgow.
Attendance 22,000.